New FIA code: faster decisions, more transparency, fewer controversies
Starting in 2026, Formula 1, along with the FIA Formula 2 and Formula 3 championships, will enter a new era of sporting governance. The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile has approved an update to the International Sporting Code (ISC), expanding the powers of race stewards with the goal of making decision-making on incidents and disputes quicker and more effective.
Incident review: more power for stewards
Until now, the only way to reopen a case was for a team to submit a review request within 96 hours, supported by a “new, significant, and relevant element.” This was seen, for example, with Williams after the Dutch Grand Prix, when the team contested the penalty given to Carlos Sainz for contact with Liam Lawson.
From 2026, stewards themselves will be able to initiate a review hearing if new information becomes available that was not accessible at the time of the decision. A new ISC article states:
“In competitions that are part of an FIA World Championship, the FIA Formula 2 Championship, or the FIA Formula 3 Championship, stewards may also decide to review their own decision on their initiative if they discover a new, significant, and relevant element that was not available to them at the time of the original decision.”
Independent panels for urgent decisions
Another innovation involves the creation of independent panels, separate from the event itself. Previously, sensitive decisions had to wait until officials gathered during the race weekend. From 2026, it will be possible to convene an “off-event” commission composed of at least five experienced members of the relevant FIA championship.
Hearings will primarily take place via videoconference but can also be held in person if the complexity of the case requires it and the parties agree to cover costs. This system will allow urgent matters to be addressed even during breaks in the season, ensuring greater continuity and timeliness in decisions.
The FIA also highlighted, following the signing of the new Concorde Agreement, that “additional funding has been secured to help invest in the improvement of race management in the future.”
The changes to the International Sporting Code represent a significant step toward a more dynamic and transparent Formula 1 and FIA system. Allowing stewards to independently review decisions and establishing off-event commissions are tools that could reduce controversies and ensure greater fairness. With the support of new investments, the FIA aims to strengthen the credibility of its sporting justice system, offering teams and drivers a more robust and modern regulatory framework.
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